Buccleuch and windfarm developer 2020 Renewables are examining the potential for a “significant” windfarm in the Lowther Hills, Dumfries and Galloway.
If the project for up to 140 turbines proceeds, the partners claim the economic, environmental and community benefits could transform the area.
Preliminary discussions have been held among Buccleuch, 2020 Renewables, other local landowners, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Government.
(CREDIT: Jim Bain)
No decision to proceed has been taken to date and a range of options are under consideration.
John Glen, chief executive of Buccleuch, said: “It appears to us that this area of land could potentially deliver more both economically and environmentally and provide more benefit to local and regional communities.
“At present, we are undertaking feasibility work into a number of proposals. The range of options for the site under active consideration includes the potential to build up to 140 turbines.”
He added: “At that scale the project would be one of Scotland’s largest windfarms making a significant contribution to the Scottish Government’s renewable energy targets.”
The windfarm would create 300-400 construction jobs over a four-year period with 20-30 operational jobs on completion.
The community benefit would be £5000 per MW in accordance with Scottish Government guidelines. Consultation will begin soon with Wanlockhead and other local communities.
Alan Baker, managing director of 2020 Renewables, said: “We are still in the early stages of this process and continue to develop our thinking. However, it is apparent that the site in question has tremendous potential to deliver economic and environmental benefit on a very significant scale.”
